Scotland flyhalf Dan Parks has retired from international rugby with immediate effect.

Following last week’s loss to England, the 33-year-old Parks has decided that he can put off his retirement no longer. He had originally intended to retire after the 2011 World Cup, but the prospect of facing England in one final Six Nations clash proved too tempting. In the end, it turned out to be a bad decision as England scored an important try after Charlie Hodgson charged down a Parks kick.

‘I was thinking about it [retirement] but the first game of the Six Nations was against England, the auld enemy, Jacko [Ruardirh Jackson] was injured and being able to play against England was huge for me as there was a sense of unfinished business,’ said Parks.

‘On reflection after the game, after talking it over with my family, girlfriend and close friends, I’ve come to the decision that now is the right time to retire from the international game.’

With Parks unavailable for selection, Greig Laidlaw is likely to start at flyhalf in this week’s clash with Wales. Coach Andy Robinson is also likely to use flyhalf Duncan Weir in the 22.

‘There are some really talented guys coming through – Jacko, Greig and Duncan – and although I’m sad to be finishing my international career I have some fantastic memories of playing for Scotland and what that has meant to me,’ said Parks.

‘I’ve no regrets at what has been an amazing career for me. I’ve got my favourite moments for Scotland – uppermost being the 2007 World Cup.

‘Other memorable moments have been the two wins against England at home [in 2006 and 2008], the win against South Africa here at Murrayfield [in November 2010], the two wins in Argentina in 2010 and one in 2008 and the Ireland game in 2010 which was a great occasion.’